Georgia House Majority Caucus Whip James Burchett has expressed gratitude to the Valdosta Police Department for their prompt action following an officer-involved shooting at SL Mason Elementary School in Valdosta. In a statement, Burchett said, “I thank the Valdosta Police Department for their quick response after a man fired shots at the SL Mason Elementary campus. Their quick response ensured that our students remained safe throughout this incident.”
Burchett also emphasized the importance of learning from such incidents to improve student safety across Georgia. “I am hopeful that we can learn from what happened here as we continue our efforts at the State Capitol to ensure that every student in Georgia is safe in the classroom,” he stated.
Jon G. Burns, who has served as a Republican representative for Georgia’s 159th House District since 2005, continues to play a role in legislative discussions about school safety and related issues.



